Editorial | Make Marriages Affordable

Marriage in Kashmir has gradually become a costly affair. What should be a simple union of two people and their families has turned into a social competition. Families often spend beyond their means to meet expectations related to weddings, food, clothes, jewellery, decorations and gifts.

The rising cost of weddings is creating pressure, especially on middle class and poor families. Many parents spend years saving for a marriage. Some are forced to borrow money or sell property to arrange an event that lasts only a few hours. This financial burden can affect a family long after the wedding is over.

The problem is not the marriage itself. The problem is the growing culture of unnecessary expenditure.

Large gatherings, expensive menus, multiple functions, lavish decorations and costly gifts are increasingly treated as signs of status. In many cases, families feel compelled to follow these practices because they fear criticism from relatives, neighbours or society.

Kashmir has a strong tradition of simple marriages. Religious and cultural values have always placed greater importance on responsibility, family and mutual respect than on extravagant celebrations. It is time to revive that approach.

Families can take the first step by keeping wedding functions simple and limiting unnecessary expenses. Communities can also play an important role by discouraging demands for expensive gifts, dowry and lavish arrangements. Religious scholars, community leaders and social organisations should openly encourage affordable marriages and speak against practices that place financial pressure on families.

Young people also have an important role. They can make it clear that they value compatibility, respect and understanding more than an expensive wedding. A couple should not begin married life under the burden of debt simply to satisfy social expectations.

There is also a need for greater social awareness. A simple wedding should not become a reason for gossip or criticism. Instead, families that choose modest celebrations should be respected for making a responsible decision.

The administration and civil society can support this change through awareness campaigns and community initiatives. Local institutions can promote simple marriage programmes and encourage collective efforts that reduce unnecessary costs.

A wedding should mark the beginning of a new life, not the beginning of a financial struggle.

Kashmir needs a change in attitude. The real value of a marriage does not lie in the number of guests, the price of the menu or the size of the decorations. It lies in the commitment between two people and the support of their families.

Making marriages affordable is not about reducing happiness. It is about removing unnecessary pressure and ensuring that every family can celebrate this important occasion with dignity.